Programs & Events that Bring Us Together

At Loomis Chaffee, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the support, resources, and community they need to thrive. SOAR — Success, Opportunity, Access, and Resilience — is a proactive, relationship-based program designed to support students as they transition into life at Loomis. Participation in SOAR helps students build confidence, form meaningful relationships, and fully engage with all that Loomis has to offer.

SOAR is designed specifically for students who come from historically underrepresented backgrounds, including students of color, first-generation college-bound students, those from rural communities, students from modest economic backgrounds, and anyone who may benefit from additional support in adjusting to the academic and social expectations of an independent boarding school.

Key elements of the program include:

• Personalized advising throughout the academic year
• Peer mentorship from trained upperclass students
• Skill-building workshops focused on academic success, personal growth, and life at Loomis
• Community-building events like dinners, movie nights, and social gatherings
• Family engagement to keep loved ones connected to the student experience

In January, the Loomis Chaffee community pauses for a powerful week of learning, reflection, and celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. MLK Week is a reminder that the legacy of Dr. King lives on through our stories, our service, and our shared commitment to equity and belonging.

The week opens with an all-school convocation address by a renowned thought leader. Recent speakers have included journalist and filmmaker Soledad O’Brien, chemist and social justice advocate Dr. Raychelle Burks, physician activist and educator Dr. Jenny Tsai, and author and assistant professor Anthony Abraham Jack. Other events include a range of student- and faculty-led workshops on music, justice, identity, and culture; film screenings and discussions; and performances by student and guest musicians and poets. 

Cultural Outburst is Loomis Chaffee’s annual spring celebration of global cultures and community. Organized by PRISM and the International Student Ambassadors, the event features student-sponsored booths showcasing food, traditions, and artifacts from around the world. Attendees enjoy authentic cuisine, learn about different cultural practices, and engage with students’ personal stories. The evening also includes live performances ranging from music and dance to spoken word and a fashion show, making it a dynamic and meaningful celebration of the school’s diversity.

Hosted on the first Friday of each month during the lunch block, First Fridays offer students, faculty, and staff a chance to gather, to share a sweet treat, and to engage in meaningful conversation. From sundae bars to apple cider donuts and iced chai, each month features a seasonal surprise — but you’ll have to stop by to find out what’s being served. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick bite or staying for a deeper chat, First Fridays are an open invitation to belong.